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FTIR Spectrometer
USER GUIDE
269-334402 Revision B April 2021
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. provides this document to its customers with a product purchase
to use in the product operation. This document is copyright protected and any reproduction of
the whole or any part of this document is strictly prohibited, except with the written
authorization of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
The contents of this document are subject to change without notice. All technical information
in this document is for reference purposes only. System configurations and specifications in
this document supersede all previous information received by the purchaser.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. makes no representations that this document is complete,
accurate or error-free and assumes no responsibility and will not be liable for any errors,
omissions, damage or loss that might result from any use of this document, even if the
information in the document is followed properly.
This document is not part of any sales contract between Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and a
purchaser. This document shall in no way govern or modify any Terms and Conditions of
Sale, which Terms and Conditions of Sale shall govern all conflicting information between the
two documents.
For Research Use Only. This instrument or accessory is not a medical device and is not
intended to be used for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment or cure of disease.
WARNING
Maintenance 53
Maintenance Schedule for the Summit Spectrometer 54
Align the Spectrometer Optics 57
Calibrate the Laser Frequency 58
Clean the Spectrometer and Touchscreen 59
Replace the Desiccant 61
Replace the Source 67
Install the Touchscreen Monitor 72
Replace the Sample Compartment Windows 80
Chapter 1
Welcome
The Thermo Scientific Nicolet Summit Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer lets you
perform chemical analyses of sample materials by collecting data in the mid-IR spectral range using
a variety of accessories. The system has integrated verification features, a powerful software suite,
and many other features that make data collection easy. You can install optional hardware and
perform several service and maintenance procedures yourself. This document, or other provided
documentation, contains the information you need.
Be sure to read the safety guide that came with the system before operating the instrument.
Note We recommend that you maintain seal and desiccation and/or purge your instrument at all
times. Equipment damage due to failure to maintain seal and desiccation and/or purge is not
covered by the warranty. If you have questions about this requirement, please contact us.
Conventions Used
Safety precautions and other important information use the following format:
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
NOTICE
Follow instructions with this label to avoid damaging the system hardware or losing data.
Ordering Parts
To order parts, contact us.
If you need to send the instrument or an accessory to us for repair, call or e-mail us first for any
shipping requirements or other instructions.
Contacting Us
For Technical Support, please contact: www.thermofisher.com
This article explains what to do when your spectrometer arrives and introduces environmental and
electrical factors that can influence your spectrometer’s performance. For a more comprehensive
explanation of these requirements, see the Site and Safety Information for the spectrometer.
If you notice any signs of damage, contact us or your local distributor for instructions.
Inside the shipping box, the spectrometer is sealed in a plastic bag to keep it dry. You must allow
24 hours for the spectrometer to reach room temperature before you open the bag. If you
open the bag before the spectrometer is warmed up, condensation could form that could damage
internal optical components and cause permanent damage.
The warranty will not cover damage due to improper moving techniques or removing the sealed
plastic bag before the instrument has come to room temperature.
Spectrometer Dimensions
The Summit spectrometer requires a fairly small space, but make sure you also leave room around
the instrument so that heat can dissipate from the vents and so that you can easily access the
instrument’s ports, power button, and cables.
Environmental Factors
The Summit spectrometer is a robust instrument designed to be used in many environments.
However, for best performance, keep it in a relatively dust-free and low-humidity environment. The
spectrometer operates reliably at temperatures between 15 and 35 °C, but for optimal performance
should be kept between 20 and 22 °C.
Humidity can cause condensation to form inside the instrument, which could damage internal
components. A few precautions can typically protect your instrument from humidity:
n Keep the instrument away from sources of cool or hot air, such as near heating and air con-
ditioning vents or large windows.
If your spectrometer will be kept in an especially humid environment, consider installing a purge gas
kit.
Electrical Requirements
Power supplied to the spectrometer must be from dedicated, uninterrupted sources and free from the
following issues:
l Voltage dropouts
l Transient spikes
l Frequency shifts
If you suspect problems with your power, we recommend a power quality audit. Contact us or your
local electrical authority for more information.
Requirements Specification
Line Frequency 50 to 60
Sags, surges, or other line disturbances must not exceed 10% of input
Line Disturbances
voltage
CAUTION
You can avoid possibly harming yourself or damaging the instrument by understanding potential
hazards and by taking a few precautions.
There are no special ventilation requirements for your spectrometer, but you may need additional
ventilation during certain types of analysis. Ensure that you have proper ventilation if you will be
analyzing highly toxic samples, dissolving your samples in solvents that may interact with the infrared
source, or sampling flammable gases.
The pyrolysis of solvents containing halogenated hydrocarbons may produce hydrochloric acid (HCl),
hydroflouric acic (HF), or phosgene (COCl2).
WARNING
The infrared source inside the spectrometer can ignite flammable and volatile samples and solvents.
Take the following actions when working with samples and solvents that are flammable:
l Ensure that the workspace is properly ventilated with an active venting system that is free of
spark or other sources of ignition and that prevents flammable vapors from collecting in the atmo-
sphere surrounding the instrument.
l Do not leave flammable solvents or samples in the sample compartment for longer than neces-
sary.
CORROSIVE SOLVENTS
Solvents that produce HCl or HF vapors in the sample compartment may severely damage the
system. If you are using halogenated solvents, purge the instrument with clean, dry air or nitrogen.
NOTICE
Your warranty does not cover equipment damage that is due to a failure to purge the instrument.
HCl and HF vapors may also compromise the coating of KBr sample compartment windows. If you
are planning to work with corrosive solvents regularly, consider installing ZnSe sample compartment
windows, instead.
Biological samples, such as tissues, body fluids, infectious agents, and blood, have the potential to
transmit infectious diseases. Follow your organization’s Biosafety Program protocols for working with
potentially infectious materials.
Toxic Materials
The Nicolet Summit OA spectrometer includes a zinc selenide (ZnSe) ATR Crystal, and other Summit
instruments may use the optional ZnSe sample compartment windows.
WARNING
Zinc selenide (ZnSe) is toxic. Refer to the manufacturer's ZnSe Safety Data
Sheet at www.specac.com for handling and exposure controls.
Sources of Heat
Parts of the spectrometer can become quite hot during normal use. Be careful around the
spectrometer’s infrared source and the vents.
Figure 2-1: Take care around the instrument’s infrared source and the vents
The outward facing surface of the infrared source is located on the bottom of the instrument and can
become quite hot. Do not touch the underside of the instrument during operation or shortly after use.
The spectrometer’s vent is located on the left side of the instrument. During normal use, the
spectrometer dissipates hot air from internal components to the area outside the spectrometer
through these vents. Leave enough space around the instrument vents for hot air to dissipate.
WARNING
Avoid personal injury.
Never stare into the laser beam or at its reflection. Never tamper with the laser,
even if you are replacing a defective laser, or you could be exposed to laser
light or to high voltage.
See "Install and Maintain a Purge Kit" for details on purchasing and installing a purge kit for your
spectrometer.
DANGER
Avoid fire and explosion hazard.
l Use only dried air or nitrogen to purge your spectrometer.
CAUTION
Avoid shock hazard.
Even after this instrument has been disconnected from all voltage sources,
capacitors may remain charged for up to 30 seconds and can cause an
electrical shock.
CAUTION
Avoid burn hazard.
WARNING
Avoid personal injury.
l Never stare into the laser beam or at its reflection. Never tamper with the
laser. You could be exposed to laser light or high voltage.
l If you adjust the laser or perform procedures that are not described in the
user guides and manuals, you could be exposed to hazardous radiation.
When you open the desiccant compartment, you must prevent flammable liquids or gases from
entering the compartment. For instructions on changing the desiccant, see "Replace the Desiccant".
DANGER
Avoid explosion hazard.
Before you open the desiccant compartment, turn off the instrument power,
unplug the power cord and remove all accessories and samples from the
system. Entry of flammable liquids or gases into the desiccant compartment
could cause an explosion. If such entry occurs, contact us immediately and do
not apply power to the instrument until the condition has been corrected.
The IR source becomes extremely hot during use. If you need to replace the IR source, avoid burn
and explosion hazards.
CAUTION
Avoid burn hazard.
The source becomes extremely hot during normal use. Always allow the
source to cool for at least 10 minutes after the spectrometer is turned off before
you work with the source.
DANGER
Avoid explosion hazard.
Before you remove the source from the spectrometer, turn off the instrument
power, unplug the power cord, disconnect any purge lines, and remove all
accessories and samples from the system. Entry of flammable liquids or gases
into the source compartment could cause an explosion. If such entry occurs,
contact us immediately and do not apply power to the instrument until the
condition has been corrected.
Summary
The Nicolet Summit spectrometer is a safe and rugged instrument, but you can be exposed to
hazards during use and maintenance. During normal operation, use caution when handling
potentially hazardous samples and solvents and avoid parts of the spectrometer that are hot or emit
heat. During maintenance, take precautions to avoid harm or damage that could occur when purging
the instrument, handling internal components, or changing the desiccant.
Reminder: Review the spectrometer's Site and Safety Information to ensure that the workspace is
safe and suitable for the instrument.
7. Purge kit
1. Summit or Summit PRO Spectrometer
8. Wireless keyboard and mouse (not
2. Power cord
shown: USB extension cable)
3. Ethernet cable
9. Mini DisplayPort cable (included
with the optional 22” high-definition
OPTIONAL
monitor)
4. Everest ATR Accessory
10. Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter
5. Touchscreen monitor
11. WiFi access dongle (comes pre-
6. ZnSe window replacement kit, installed if purchased)
including window replacement tool and
Not shown: Optional 22” High-
nitrile gloves
Definition Monitor
Remove the spectrometer from the shipping box and bag and remove additional packing
materials.
NOTICE
l Do not touch the sample compartment windows while unpacking the instrument. Touching
the windows could cause permanent damage.
If you have the attached touchscreen monitor, grasp the monitor by the sides and position it to
face the front of the instrument.
If you are using an external monitor, connect the monitor to the spectrometer using the Mini
DisplayPort. If you are also using the optional wireless mouse and keyboard, use the provided
USB extension cable to position the wireless receiver farther from the USB inputs.
Note Some USB and Mini DisplayPort devices are known to interfere with the signal from
wireless USB devices, such as wireless keyboards and mice. If you notice performance issues
with your wireless keyboard and mouse, such as lag or delayed or missed input, use the
provided USB extension cable to position the wireless USB receiver farther from the USB
ports.
If you purchased the ZnSe windows option, replace the windows. For instructions on replacing
the windows, see Replace the Sample Compartment Windows.
NOTICE
You must create a new password the first time you power on the spectrometer. If this password
is lost or forgotten, all data saved on the spectrometer will be unrecoverable. It is recommended
that you leave the password blank during initial setup and later create a secure password and
additional user accounts as needed.
a. Connect the power supply to the spectrometer and to a properly grounded AC power source.
b. Press the instrument's power button to turn on the spectrometer. The spectrometer's LightBar
will display a cycling green light while the instrument warms up and will show a solid green bar
when the instrument is ready for use.
Before taking the following steps, make sure there is not a sampling accessory in the sampling
compartment.
a. Launch the Thermo ScientificOMNIC Paradigm software. The first time the software starts, it
will open with the touchscreen interface. Later, you can switch between teh touchscreen and
desktop interfaces.
The software may take several minutes to start and to connect to the instrument. The software
displays the connection status in the upper right corner of the screen. When the status shows
you are connected, proceed to the next step.
ii. Navigate to the Align tab and touch Align. The alignment process may take several
minutes to complete.
Navigate to the Laser Calibration tab and touch calibrate. Laser calibration may take several
minutes to complete. When calibration is finished, the display shows "Measurement
complete" and indicates any change in laser frequency.
The instrument takes up to 12 hours to come to thermal equilibrium. For best results, re-run steps
b and c after the first 12 hours of operation.
d. Run thet Nicolet FTIR – Factory Qualification workflow. Performance verification and
qualification workflows use a polystyrene reference material inside the spectrometer to run a
series of standard tests to verify your instrument operation and to ensure the accuracy of your
data.
ii. Navigate to the Workflows tab and select Nicolet FTIR - Factory Qualification.
iii. To run the workflow, touch the Run icon and follow the on-screen prompts.
For more on performance verification and qualification workflows, see Qualify Your
Spectrometer.
To install the optional Everest ATR accessory or iD1 Transmission accessory, grasp the
accessory by the front and rear handholds and lower the accessory onto the spectrometer.
Sampling accessories fit over two alignment pins on the spectrometer baseplate and are held in
place by strong magnets.
l For details on using the Everest ATR accessory, see Sampling Accessories.
Next Steps
Congratulations! Your instrument is ready for use. However, before you start collecting data, back up
your system and create a recovery drive to protect your system from potential problems in the future.
Windows 10 includes several built-in tools for backing up and recovering your data.
For instructions on creating a recovery drive and system image and on restoring your system, see
"Back up and Recover Your Data" .
IMPORTANT! To ensure that you can recover any data in the event of damage to the hard drive or
operating system, create recovery media, create a system image, and establish procedures for
backing up your data.
Required Materials
NOTICE
Everything on the drive will be deleted during this process. Before you proceed, make sure you
have backed up any files you wish keep.
1. Insert the flash drive in one of the USB ports on the side of the spectrometer.
2. In the Windows 10 search box in the taskbar, search for “Create Recovery Drive” and select
Create Recovery Drive.
4. De-select “Back up system files to the recovery drive” and click Next.
5. Select your drive from list of available drives and click Next.
6. Click Create. When the process is finished, click Finish to close the window.
7. Safely remove the flash drive and store it in a safe place. It’s a good idea to label the drive as Sum-
mit Recovery Drive.
Depending on how much data you copy to the system image, the process may take a while. If you are
copying a large amount of data, it may take more than an hour for the process to complete.
Required Materials
2. In Windows 10, open the Control Panel and select Backup and Restore (Windows 7).
4. Select On a hard disk and select your SSD from the list. Click Next.
6. When asked “Do you want to create a system repair disc,” click No.
7. Click Close and safely remove the SSD from the Summit. Label the drive as Summit Recovery
and store it in safe place.
Required materials
❖ To restore your system using the recovery drive and system image
5. When the screen shows the Thermo Scientific splash screen, tap “Esc” on the keyboard several
times to open the system BIOS.
If a popup dialog shows “Quit Without Saving?” use the arrow keys to select No.
6. Using the arrow keys, navigate to the Save & Exit tab.
7. Navigate to the Boot Override section and select your recovery flash drive. Hit Enter to boot to the
recovery image.
8. When the “Choose your keyboard layout” screen appears, remove the recovery flash drive from
the USB port and insert the system image SSD.
14. In the “Select a system image backup” window, use the latest available system image or select
another system image. Click Next.
15. Click Next to leave additional restore options in their default state, and click Finish to restore the
system image. Click Yes to confirm.
Restoring takes about 15 minutes, and the system will automatically reboot when complete.
When the system is back on, safely remove the SSD from the spectrometer and store both the
recovery drive and system image SSD in a safe place.
For information on restoring the system to the image, see Microsoft’s online help.
Connecting to an external monitor with the Mini DisplayPort gives you added flexibility. Connect a
USB mouse and keyboard when using OMNIC Paradigm software for desktop.
1. Connect a Mini DisplayPort cable to the Mini DisplayPort input on the spectrometer.
A Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable is provided when you purchase a monitor with your
Summit spectrometer.
Note Some USB and Mini DisplayPort devices are known to interfere with the signal from
wireless USB devices, such as wireless keyboards and mice. If you notice performance issues
with your wireless keyboard and mouse, such as lag or delayed or missed input, use the
provided USB extension cable to position the wireless USB receiver farther from the USB
ports.
Integrated accessories and baseplates are easy to install and remove and are recognized
automatically by OMNIC Paradigm software.
Figure 2-2: Location of alignment pins and magnets shown on a Nicolet Summit.
1. Pins
2. Magnets
3. Tapped holes
1. Hold the accessory by the front and rear handles and lower it into the spectrometer sample
compartment. Magnets hold the accessory in place.
2. If you are purging your instrument, attach the purge line labeled “To accessory” to the purge inlet
on the back of the accessory. See "Install and Maintain a Purge Kit" for more information.
Note To remove an accessory, disconnect the purge line if necessary and then grasp the
accessory by the handles and lift it up. When not using an accessory, store it in a dust-free
environment, such as a cabinet or box.
Note Avoid installing the iD Base Adapter without an attached accessory. Very strong magnets
hold the adapter in place; you may need to use a tool to pry it free.
For slide-mounted accessories that are too big for the iD1 Transmission Accessory, a slide mount
that fits the iD base is available.
The iD Base Adapter has two sets of screw holes so the slide mount can be installed facing either
direction. To install the slide mount, position it over the screw holes, and then insert and tighten the
two washers and screws.
Use the height adjustment screw to raise or lower a sample or accessory to align it in the infrared
beam.
2. Place the iD Base Adapter on the two pins in the spectrometer baseplate. Strong magnets hold
the adapter and accessory in place.
3. Some specialized baseplate-mounted accessories are secured to the instrument using 4 screws
supplied with the accessory.
1. Slide the accessory into one pair of slots in the iD1 Transmission Accessory.
Choose a pair of slots that will place the center of the accessory at the beam focus (designated by
WARMING UP
Green Cycle
System is on Green light moves from left to
and warming up right repeatedly. Warm-up time is
approximately 2 minutes.
TRADITIONAL COLLECTION
Solid Green
Green Comet
SMART COLLECTION
Blue Pulse
Collecting
Smart Full LightBar pulses blue
Background
Blue Comet
Collecting
Small section of blue light bounces
sample data
back and forth
(user initiated)
ANALYSIS RESULTS
Green % Fill
Match value or Green fill to reflect match value.
QCheck result For example, fills approximately
above threshold 90% for a match value of 90.
Orange % Fill
Match value or Orange fill to reflect match value.
QCheck result For example, fills approximately
below threshold 30% for a match value of 30.
DIAGNOSTICS
Red Flash
Full LightBar flashes red. See
System Status in OMNIC
System error
Paradigm software for a
description of the error.
With a Nicolet Summit spectrometer and a free Connect account, measure samples in the classroom
or lab, upload the data to your Connect account, and view, explore, or share the data on another
device in your dorm or workspace.
For instructions on creating a Connect account and viewing your data with OMNIC Anywhere, visit
“Cloud-enabled FTIR Spectroscopy”.
For instructions on installing a sampling accessory, see "Sampling Accessories for the Summit
Spectrometer"
With the following accessories and adapters, the Summit spectrometer can quickly and easily
measure a wide range of samples.
The iD1 Transmission accessory is convenient for sampling films, pellets, liquids, and gases and fits
a wide range of transmission accessories. The sample compartment fits gas cells and cuvettes up to
10 cm.
The iD5 and iD7 ATR accessories—designed for the Nicolet iS™5 spectrometer—are alternatives to
the Everest ATR accessory. While these ATR accessories are excellent multi-purpose accessories,
the Everest ATR accessory is recommend for use with Summit spectrometers.
For details, see “iD5 ATR Accessory for the Nicolet™ iS5 Spectrometer.” or “iD7 ATR Accessory for
the Nicolet™ iS5 Spectrometer.”
The iD Base Adapter accommodates a wide variety of third-party accessories for FTIR sampling,
including large transmission accessories and other specialized accessories. Pair the iD Base
Adapter with the slide mount sample holder for even more options.
Pair a slide mount sample holder with the iD Base adapter to use slide-mounted accessories that are
too large for the iD1 Transmission accessory.
The Golden Gate ATR accessory features a sapphire anvil for high pressure contact and a rugged
exterior, allowing you to analyze a range of samples, from single particles and fibers or hard solids to
corrosive liquids. The Golden Gate ATR accessory is also ideal for macro sampling.
For details, see “Thermo Scientific™ Golden Gate ATR for Nicolet iS5 FTIR Spectrometer.”
WARNING
Avoid explosion hazard
Never use a flammable, combustible, or toxic gas to purge this instrument. The
purge gas must be free of oil and other reactive materials. Heat from the
source or from laser absorption may ignite flammable gases or reactive
materials in purge gas. Use only dried air or nitrogen to purge your instrument.
NOTICE
We recommend maintaining the seal and desiccating and/or purging the instrument at all times.
The warranty does not cover damage caused by a failure to properly desiccate or purge the
instrument. If you have questions about this requirement, please contact us.
SETUP NEEDED
Before installing the purge kit, you will need a source of dry air or nitrogen that meets Thermo
Scientific specifications for the Nicolet™ Summit Spectrometer. See the instrument’s Site and Safety
guide for details.
Note For best results, dry the purge gas to a dew point of -70 °C (-94 °F) or below.
MATERIALS NEEDED
In addition to the purge kit, you will need the following tools and materials:
a. Install the regulator valve and either a 1/4-inch male fitting or a 3/8-inch female fitting on the
purge gas source. (Choose a valve and fittings that are appropriate for the purge gas source.)
If you used a 3/8-inch female fitting on the purge gas source, install the 3/8-inch to 1/4-inch
reducing nipple that was included with your purge kit. Wrap the reducing nipple with thread
seal tape before you install it, and use an 11/16-inch open-ended wrench to tighten the
connection.
c. Wrap the reducing nipple or the 1/4-inch male fitting with thread seal tape, and then install the
pressure coupling. Use a 3/4-inch open-ended wrench to tighten the connection.
d. Snap the male inlet of the wall plumbing assembly firmly into the quick release fitting.
1. To accessory
2. To spectrometer
3. Flowmeter
4. Pressure regulator
a. Turn off the instrument power, unplug the power cord, and remove all accessories and
samples from the system.
WARNING
b. Loosen the two captive Phillips head screws from the standard desiccant cartridge, and lift the
cartridge straight up and out of the instrument.
Note If the standard desiccant cartridge is stored in a dry box or sealed bag (you can use
the bag the purge cartridge came in), the cartridge can be reused.
e. Remove the O-ring from the packet and install it on the instrument base plate (see previous
image). Press (rather than roll) the new O-ring into place to be sure it is properly seated in the
groove.
f. Remove the desiccant cartridge with purge fittings from the packet, insert the cartridge in the
desiccant compartment, ensure that it is seated properly over the O-ring, and then secure it
using the two screws.
Note the correct orientation of the cartridge. You should be able to read the label on the
cartridge from the front of the instrument when the cartridge is installed.
1. Purge inlet
2. Relief valve
a. Connect the flow coupler from the wall plumbing assembly (labeled “to spectrometer”) to the
purge inlet on the desiccant cartridge.
c. If you are purging the accessory, connect the straight flow coupler from the plumbing
assembly (labeled “to accessory”) to the purge inlet on the installed accessory.
a. Open the main regulator valve and set the purge gas controls as indicated below (see Setting
the Purge Gas Controls for details). If you are not purging the accessory, set the pressure
regulator for accessories to zero.
Pressure
Hardware Flow Rate (scfh)
(psig)
Summit Spectrometer 5 1
iD1 Transmission
5 4-10
Accessory
iD Foundation 5 4-10
b. Plug in the power cord to the instrument and turn on the power.
For best results, the purge gas should be dried to a dew point of -70 °C (-94 °F) or below.
1. Open the main valve to start the flow of purge gas through the regulator.
2. Adjust the pressure regulator for the spectrometer until the gauge indicates that the pressure is 5
psig (34 kPa).
4. If you are using an accessory that is purged, set the purge gas controls for the accessory as
indicated below.
NOTICE
Flow rates greater than recommended values can cause vibration, which can affect the quality
of your data.
NOTICE
We recommend maintaining seal and desiccation and/or purging the instrument at all times.
Equipment damage due to failure to maintain seal and desiccation and/or purge is not covered
under the warranty. If you have questions about this requirement, please contact us.
Figure 3-1: The purge filter is located inside of the plastic bowl below the pressure gauge
1. Turn off the purge gas at the main valve. Do not turn down the flowmeter or the pressure reg-
ulator.
2. Remove the plastic bowl that houses the filter and then remove the filter. (You can unscrew them
both by hand.)
4. Open the main valve to turn on the purge flow to the instrument and verify proper purge gas flow
rate.
Maintenance
Your Nicolet Summit FTIR Spectrometer requires little upkeep and no daily maintenance. However,
basic care will ensure continued peak performance.
NOTICE
Static electricity can permanently damage critical components in your spectrometer. To help
prevent such damage, follow these recommendations:
l Before you disconnect the power supply, discharge any static electricity you may have accu-
mulated by touching the spectrometer’s metal base.
l Leave replacement parts in their protective packaging until you are ready to install them in the
instrument.
Weekly Maintenance
VERIFY THE SPECTROMETER PERFORMANCE
The OMNIC Paradigm software includes qualification and performance verification (PV) workflows
for your Summit spectrometer. The qualification workflows are standard industry-wide qualification
tests you most likely recognize (for example, European Pharmacopoeia, Japanese Pharmacopoeia,
etc.). The PV workflow runs a series of standard tests to verify instrument operation and ensure the
accuracy of your data. Any required reference standards are supplied inside the instrument and
controlled by the OMNIC Paradigm software.
We recommend that you run the PV workflow or your preferred qualification workflow at least once a
week.
The spectrometer and touchscreen can be cleaned only as recommended. See "Clean the
Spectrometer and Touchscreen".
Monthly Maintenance
CHECK THE HUMIDITY INDICATOR
The spectrometer’s optical components can be easily damaged by excessive moisture in the air. The
spectrometer is sealed and its components are protected by two desiccant canisters that absorb
moisture. Monitor the instrument humidity in OMNIC Paradigm software.
The spectrometer’s optical components can be easily damaged by excessive moisture in the air. The
spectrometer is sealed and its components are protected by two desiccant canisters that absorb
moisture. A humidity indicator located here monitors the humidity level inside the spectrometer.
You can also monitor the humidity through OMNIC Paradigm software. In the Desktop interface, click
the instrument icon to view the system status, or in the Touchscreen interface, select the Diagnostics
icon. The humidity level is listed in the Environment section.
Check the humidity indicator at least once a month and change the desiccant canisters when needed
(see the table below), or purchase and install a purge kit. See "Install and Maintain a Purge Kit" for
more information.
Humidity Indicator
Meaning Action
State
Humidity Indicator
Meaning Action
State
Desiccant is becoming
saturated with moisture and
Light blue Replace the desiccant
no longer providing
sufficient protection
NOTICE
We recommend that you keep the spectrometer sealed and desiccated, or sealed and purged with
dry air or nitrogen, at all times. Equipment damage due to failure to maintain seal and desiccation
and/or purge is not covered under the warranty. If you have questions about this requirement,
please contact us.
If your spectrometer is purged with nitrogen or dry air, check the purge filter at least once a month.
Replace the filter when it is yellow, or otherwise discolored, or if it is contaminated with debris or
foreign particles. For more information, see "Check and Change the Purge Gas Filter".
Figure 4-2: The purge filter is located inside of the plastic bowl below the pressure gauge
1. On the home screen, select the Diagnostics icon [ ] to open the diagnostics view.
The system automatically aligns the spectrometer and indicates when alignment is complete.
1. Navigate to the Administrator area, select the Diagnostics icon [ ] to open the diagnostics
view.
The system automatically aligns the spectrometer and indicates when alignment is complete.
The system automatically aligns the spectrometer and indicates when alignment is complete.
1. On the home screen, select the Diagnostics icon [ ] to open the Diagnostics view.
When laser calibration is complete, a message indicates whether the laser frequency has been
changed and displays the new frequency.
1. Navigate to the Administrator area, and select the Diagnostics icon [ ] to open the Dia-
gnostics view.
When laser calibration is complete, a message indicates whether the laser frequency has been
changed and displays the new frequency.
2. In the Laser Calibration dialog box, click Start to calibrate the laser.
When the system is finished calibrating the laser, a message indicates whether the frequency
was changed and displays the new frequency.
Dust can collect on the electronics enclosure on the back of the instrument and can potentially
interfere with heat dissipation, which may reduce the lifetime of the electronic components.
To remove dust from the back of the instrument, use compressed air to blow the dust off. Do not use
any liquid when removing dust from the back of the spectrometer.
CAUTION
Avoid shock hazard. To avoid shock hazard, do not allow liquid to run
into the power supply or the back of the instrument.
NOTICE
Do not use harsh detergents, solvents, chemicals, or abrasives; these can damage the finish. Do
not allow liquid to contact any windows in the sample compartment.
NOTICE
Windows can be scratched and ruined very easily. Do not touch or attempt to clean them. Dust will
not affect the signal, but fingerprints can degrade the performance of the instrument and
permanently damage mirrors or windows. If you wish to remove dust from a mirror or window, blow
it off with a gentle stream of clean, dry air or nitrogen. Never allow any liquid to come into contact
with a window or optical component in the instrument.
To clean the screen, apply window or glass cleaner to a clean cloth or sponge, and gently wipe the
screen with the cloth.
NOTICE
Do not use alcohol (methyl, ethyl, or isopropyl), thinner, benzene, or other abrasive cleaners.
Replacing the desiccant requires you to remove the desiccant cartridge and replace the desiccant
canisters and the O-ring.
TOOLS NEEDED
l Gloves, finger cots, or laboratory tissue (to handle the humidity indicator)
WARNING
Avoid explosion hazard.
Before opening the desiccant compartment, turn off the instrument power,
unplug the power cord and remove all accessories and samples from the
system. Entry of flammable liquids or gases into the desiccant compartment is
an explosion hazard. If such entry occurs, contact us immediately and do not
apply power to the instrument until the condition has been corrected.
NOTICE
Make sure nothing falls into the instrument while the desiccant cover is removed.
WARNING
c. Turn off the purge, if applicable, and disconnect the purge line to the instrument and any
accessory.
Note You can use either desiccant cartridge (with or without the purge connector) to
maintain the required humidity. The illustrations below show the nonpurged version of the
desiccant cartridge. The instructions for replacing the desiccant canisters are the same for
both cartridges.
a. Remove any installed accessory and all samples from the instrument.
b. Use the #2 Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the two captive screws from the desiccant
cartridge, and lift the cartridge straight up and out of the instrument.
Note Be careful to not drop the O-ring into the desiccant compartment.
WARNING
a. Use the 0.05-inch hex key to loosen (approximately two turns) the eight screws that hold the
two saturated desiccant canisters to the desiccant cartridge. Remove the canisters.
1. Desiccant cartridge
3. Desiccant canisters
b. Turn the desiccant cartridge upside down and peel the old humidity indicator off the window.
Discard the used indicator.
NOTICE
Always wear lab gloves or finger cots, or use laboratory tissue, when handling a new
humidity indicator. Oil or moisture from skin can discolor the indicator.
a. Open the sealed packet that contains the new desiccant (must be sealed to maintain the
desiccant) and remove the new humidity indicator.
b. Turn the desiccant cartridge upside down and press the blue indicator onto the window so that
the flat edges of the indicator are aligned with the edges of the cartridge. The text should be
visible through the window when you turn the cartridge right side up.
NOTICE
Make sure that the indicator is pressed tightly against the window so that it does not come
loose in the desiccant compartment when you reinstall the cartridge.
c. Insert the canisters into the channel of the desiccant cartridge and tighten the eight screws
(approximately 2 turns) until they are flush with the cartridge channel.
a. Remove the new O-ring from the packet and install it on the instrument base plate.
Press, rather than roll, the new O-ring into place to be sure it is properly seated in the groove.
b. Insert the desiccant cartridge into the spectrometer so that the text on the humidity indicator
can be read by someone standing in front of the instrument.
Make sure the cartridge is seated properly over the O-ring and then use the #2 Phillips head
screwdriver to tighten the two captive screws.
a. Plug in the power cord to the instrument and turn on the power.
b. Reconnect the purge line to the instrument, if applicable, and turn on the purge.
Before taking the following steps, make sure there is not a sampling accessory in the sampling
compartment.
i. From the dashboard of OMNIC Paradigm software, go to Acquire Data > Diagnostics
> Align Spectrometer.
ii. Select Start to begin alignment. The screen says "Align complete" when alignment has fin-
ished successfully.
Laser calibration may take several minutes to complete. When calibration is finished, the
display shows "Measurement complete" and indicates any change in laser frequency.
The instrument takes up to 12 hours to come to thermal equilibrium. For best results, re-run
alignment and calibration after the first 12 hours of operation.
c. Run the Nicolet FTIR – Factory Qualification workflow. Performance verification and
qualification workflows use a polystyrene reference material inside the spectrometer to run a
series of standard tests to verify your instrument operation and to ensure the accuracy of your
data.
ii. Scroll to the Workflows pane and select Nicolet FTIR - Factory Qualification.
iii. Right click the workflow and select Run to start the workflow.
CAUTION
Before replacing the source, turn off the instrument. Replace the source
only with replacement parts supplied by us.
b. Disconnect any cables from the instrument, such as the Ethernet cable or USB devices.
c. If the spectrometer or an installed accessory is purged, disconnect the purge lines from the
spectrometer and the accessory (quick connect fittings stop the flow automatically). See
"Install and Maintain a Purge Kit" for more information.
CAUTION
The source becomes extremely hot while you are using the instrument.
Wait at least 10 minutes after turning the instrument off before you
perform the next step.
a. If your spectrometer has the touchscreen monitor attached, move the monitor to the storage
position, as show in Figure 1.
Figure 4-3: Summit PRO spectrometer with touchscreen monitor in the storage position
b. Carefully tip the instrument back until it rests on the fins of the heat sink. Do not use the
touchscreen monitor to support the weight of the spectrometer.
c. Use a #1 Phillips head screwdriver to fully loosen the three captive screws that hold the
source in place.
d. Swing the bale out. Steady the instrument with one hand and pull firmly on the bale to pull the
source straight out of the instrument.
NOTICE
Never touch a source element with your bare fingers. Skin oils or other deposits on the element
will shorten its life. Always use clean finger cots, gloves, or clean laboratory tissue when
handling a source element.
a. Make sure the three captive screws are straight and then slowly insert the source into the
cavity until the source mount is flush with the instrument.
b. Tighten the screws to secure the source and snap the bale into its storage position.
a. Carefully return the instrument to its upright position and reconnect any cables you removed.
Because the internal optics are exposed to the atmosphere when removing the source, the
desiccant should always be replaced after replacing the source.
WARNING
To ensure a good ground connection and avoid shock hazard, do not use
an outlet that is connected to a conduit ground. The ground must be a
noncurrent-carrying wire connected to earth ground at the main distribution
box.
c. Plug in the power cord to the instrument and press the power button to turn on the
spectrometer.
Note Do not install any sampling accessing until after you have aligned the spectrometer
and verified its performance
Before taking the following steps, make sure there is not a sampling accessory in the sampling
compartment.
i. From the dashboard of OMNIC Paradigm software, go to Acquire Data > Diagnostics
> Align Spectrometer.
ii. Select Start to begin alignment. The screen says "Align complete" when alignment has fin-
ished successfully.
Laser calibration may take several minutes to complete. When calibration is finished, the
display shows "Measurement complete" and indicates any change in laser frequency.
The instrument takes up to 12 hours to come to thermal equilibrium. For best results, re-run
alignment and calibration after the first 12 hours of operation.
c. Run the Nicolet FTIR – Factory Qualification workflow. Performance verification and
qualification workflows use a polystyrene reference material inside the spectrometer to run a
series of standard tests to verify your instrument operation and to ensure the accuracy of your
data.
ii. Scroll to the Workflows pane and select Nicolet FTIR - Factory Qualification.
iii. Right click the workflow and select Run to start the workflow.
a. Press the power button to turn off the spectrometer and then unplug the power cord.
b. Turn off the purge, if applicable, and disconnect the purge line to the instrument and any
accessory.
2. Remove the WiFi compartment cover from the back of the spectrometer.
While standing in front of the spectrometer, gently squeeze the left side of the cover and lift the
cover up and off of the spectrometer, as shown in Figure 1. This cover can be discarded or stored
for future use.
Figure 4-4: Gently squeeze the left side of the cover and lift it off of the spectrometer
The base of the touchscreen mount attaches to the spectrometer with three captive screws, as
shown in the figure below.
a. Guide the front bottom of the mount into the compartment and then rotate the mount past the
sides of the compartment, as shown in Figure 3.
Figure 4-6: Position the touchscreen mount over the three pre-drilled holes
b. Using the 9/64-inch hex driver, begin tightening each of the three captive screws to ensure
that the mount is aligned over the holes. Once each screw is started, finish tightening all of the
screws until they are snug. You may have to rotate the screen out of the way to access each
screw.
Figure 4-7: Rotate the screen out of the way if it is blocking access to the captive screw
The touchscreen monitor connects to the spectrometer with three cables: an HDMI cable, a USB
cable, and the power cable. We recommend routing the cables in the sequence described below
to ensure that the cover sits properly over the cables.
a. Plug the thin power cable into the power port and then lay the cable along the guides running
along the top of the compartment, as shown in the figure below.
Figure 4-8: The three cables wrap behind the spectrometer’s sample compartment
b. Plug the HDMI cable into the HDMI port, but leave the cable outside of the cable guides for
now. Slide the ferrite choke as close as possible to the HDMI port.
c. Plug in the USB cable and lay the cable on top of the thinner power cable in the cable guides.
d. Tuck the coiled portion of the HDMI cable into the compartment in front of the base of the
touchscreen mount, as shown in Figure 6. It may be easier to roll the cable into place rather
than pushing it.
Figure 4-9: Tuck the extra length of HDMI cable in front of the touchscreen mount
e. Lay the HDMI cable on top of the USB and power cables in the cable guides, and tuck any
excess cable in front of the touchscreen mount.
If you have a Summit PRO spectrometer, route the HDMI cable between two of the vertical
fins of the heat sink.
The HDMI cable should fit tightly along the side of the touchscreen mount. Excess or loose
cable can obstruct the compartment cover and prevent the cover from closing.
Figure 4-10: The three cables fit in the cable guides along the back of the spectrometer
a. Insert the tabs on the cover’s right edge into the slots in front of the touchscreen mount, and
then lower the cover over the cables and press the cover down until it snaps into place. There
should be only a thin, uniform gap between the covers.
Figure 4-11: Position the cover around the touchscreen mount first, then lower it into place
WARNING
c. To turn on the touchscreen, press the power button on the rear side of the monitor.
Congratulations. Your touchscreen monitor is installed and ready for use. With the touchscreen
monitor installed, you can open OMNIC Paradigm software and switch to the touchscreen interface
for a convenient, streamlined experience.
WARNING
Avoid fire and explosion hazard.
The infrared source inside the instrument is an ignition source. If you are using
volatile solvents, provide a fume hood or other active venting system that is
free of spark and other ignition sources and prevents flammable vapors from
collecting in the atmosphere surrounding the instrument.
We install potassium bromide (KBr) windows at the factory and run all of our operating and
performance tests with the windows installed. The KBr windows are hygroscopic but have a
protective coating. On this spectrometer, they provide a working spectral range between
8,000 and 350 cm-1 with no significant optical absorptions lines.
For optimal spectrometer performance, the sample compartment windows must be clear (not cloudy)
and clean (no dust or fingerprints). If your windows become contaminated, the spectrometer may fail
performance and qualification tests. You can order new windows from us and install them yourself
using the instructions below.
NOTICE
l Replace sample compartment windows only with replacement parts supplied by us.
l Windows can be scratched and ruined very easily. Do not touch or attempt to clean them. Dust
will not affect the signal, but fingerprints can degrade the performance of the instrument and
permanently damage mirrors or windows. If you wish to remove dust from a mirror or window,
blow it off with a gentle stream of clean, dry air or nitrogen. (Do not use compressed air from a
can; contaminants may cause damage.)
l Leave new windows in their protective packaging until you are ready to insert them in the spec-
trometer.
l If you remove working KBr or ZnSe windows from the spectrometer, immediately place them in
the provided protective packaging (includes desiccant) and seal the package securely.
Tools needed:
l Nitrile gloves
Note If your instrument is purged, leave the purge on while you replace the windows to prevent
ambient air from entering the spectrometer.
a. Line up the three ribs on the window replacement tool’s inside rim with the notches in the
outside rim of the first installed window.
Note The window fittings are tight. Use one hand to stabilize the instrument and the other
to remove the window.
b. Press firmly on the tool and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the window.
Continue loosening the window until it is free. If you tip the tool upward, it will support the
window so you don’t have to handle it directly.
NOTICE
Use nitrile gloves to handle the window and handle it by the rims only. (Avoid touching the
window surfaces even when wearing gloves.)
c. If the window is still usable, grasp it by the plastic ring and carefully place it in the provided
package (with desiccant). Store the package someplace that is clean and dry.
a. Grasp the new window by the plastic ring and carefully place it in the window replacement tool
with the window threads facing up.
b. Rotate the window until the three notches in its outside rim line up with the ribs on the tool’s
inside rim.
c. Reversing the removal procedure above, tip the tool and window just enough to place the
window over the opening in the spectrometer.
d. While maintaining light pressure against the spectrometer wall, slowly turn the tool clockwise
to ensure the window’s threads are engaged properly.
NOTICE
The window should turn easily at the start; if it doesn’t, reverse the direction of rotation and
restart the insertion to avoid stripping the threads.
e. Continue rotating the tool clockwise until you feel the O-ring compress, plus 1/8 turn more.
Before taking the following steps, make sure there is not a sampling accessory in the sampling
compartment.
i. From the dashboard of OMNIC Paradigm software, go to Acquire Data > Diagnostics
> Align Spectrometer.
ii. Select Start to begin alignment. The screen says "Align complete" when alignment has fin-
ished successfully.
Laser calibration may take several minutes to complete. When calibration is finished, the
display shows "Measurement complete" and indicates any change in laser frequency.
The instrument takes up to 12 hours to come to thermal equilibrium. For best results, re-run
alignment and calibration after the first 12 hours of operation.
c. Run the Nicolet FTIR – Factory Qualification workflow. Performance verification and
qualification workflows use a polystyrene reference material inside the spectrometer to run a
series of standard tests to verify your instrument operation and to ensure the accuracy of your
data.
ii. Scroll to the Workflows pane and select Nicolet FTIR - Factory Qualification.
iii. Right click the workflow and select Run to start the workflow.
8. If you use operational qualification (OQ) tests to track instrument performance, we recommend
that you rerun your chosen OQ test after the sample compartment windows have been replaced
(especially if you changed the window type). See the article titled “Qualify the Summit
Spectrometer” in the online help for more information.